Bill > H699

This bill establishes a special commission to study the bluefin tuna fishery in Massachusetts, aiming to ensure the species' long-term health and increase its population, particularly the giant bluefin tuna. The commission will investigate the economic and biological effects of various fishing methods, including hook and line, traditional harpooning, and purse seining, and will also look at how commercial and recreational fishing efforts interact. To achieve this, the commission will gather and analyze historical data on where, when, and how frequently bluefin tuna have been caught, as well as the techniques used. The commission will be composed of representatives from the House of Representatives, the Senate, and the Governor's appointments, with specific seats reserved for individuals representing different fishing interests (purse seine, harpooning, hook and line, and recreational), as well as representatives from the division of coastal zone management, the division of marine fisheries, and the marine trades industry. The commission is authorized to hold meetings in coastal communities and must submit its findings by November 30, 2016, to the committee on natural resources, the division of marine fisheries, and the division of coastal zone management.